The Titans aren’t buying the notion that Dont’a Hightower is serious about leaving the Patriots. So, they have taken the logical step of removing themselves from the Hightower sweepstakes, Albert Breer of The MMQB tweets. Things can always change, but right now they are planning on putting their energy, focus, and money in a different direction. Meanwhile, GM Jon Robinson says that Hightower never even visited the team (Twitter link via Paul Kuharsky of ESPN.com).

Non-rush linebackers don’t typically cash in on the open market, but Hightower is excellent at what he does and figures to be an exception. Although the Pats declined to give him a franchise tender worth roughly $14.7MM for one-year, he could still get eight figures per season on a multi-year deal.

In order to get that kind of money from New England, he’ll first have to get a similar offer from another team. Right now, the Titans and Jets don’t believe he’s sincere about leaving the defending champs. He’s now slated to visit with the Steelers, however, and that’s a team that would be of interest to any player serious about winning.

13 comments on “Titans Out On Dont’a Hightower”

I understand with the Patriots having a tight system in place on how to handle players contracts but with the fiasco happening with Butler Patriots would be wise to up there current offer just to end this.I’m not saying pay him ridiculous amount but enough to make him happy.For example if the offer is 10 million a year Offer him 11 I think both sides will be happy.Just end this and focus on Butler.

I don’t understand why teams pull out if they are convinced he’ll sign with the Pats. If they want him, they should offer him whatever they think he’s worth. Worse case, it drives up the price for the Pats and a rival has less cap space to work with.